Qualifications & Expectations

Get ready for the road

Qualifications

In order to become a truck driver at Prime, you must meet a set of qualifications and requirements to ensure that we are hiring the safest and most skilled associates for the job. The information below is subject to change and does not include all qualifications for Prime. If you have any questions about this information below, contact our Recruiting Department.

  • Must be at least 21 years old with a valid US driver’s license for the past 12 months
  • Be able to obtain U.S. Passport, TWIC Card and Hazmat Endorsement
  • Have a verifiable work history and references
  • Have an acceptable motor vehicle record
  • Must be able to meet minimum medical qualifications set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Joining prime

Expectations

You’ve decided to take your first step toward becoming a truck driver and earn your Class A CDL. What’s next? Find out what to expect as you begin this journey.

Step Two

START CDL TRAINING

Once you’ve gone through orientation, you’ll train one-on-one with a CDL instructor for 2-4 weeks while running real loads across the country. During this time, you’ll gain the experience you need to earn your CDL.

Step Four

Get Paid to Train

After you earn your CDL, you’ll continue training with a TNT Trainer with a goal to obtain a minimum of 50,000 training miles. Earn a guarantee of $700/week until you reach 40,000 miles, and earn a guarantee of $800/week after that until you upgrade. Guarantee is earned as long as you are available for dispatch.

Step one

Attend orientation

You will attend an orientation week at one of our facilities nearest you (Springfield, MO; Pittston, PA; or Salt Lake, UT). Prime will cover your hotel stay and 3 meals per day during your orientation process. Experience hands-on, classroom, and simulator training before getting into a truck with a trainer.

Step Three

Take your exam

Return to your training location to take your CDL exam and earn your CDL. Once you have earned your CDL, you’ll be able to start the next phase of your training and move closer to becoming a truck driver. Plus, you’ll get a $250 bonus if you pass your exam on the first try!

Step Five

Launch your career

When you obtain 50,000 team miles, you will be eligible for  upgrade review. Upgrading into your own truck is based on service, safety, and truck availability. You can make the choice to be a solo or team driver and choose whether to lease your own truck or get into a company truck. From there, the road is yours. 

Truck Driving Career Path

Prime drivers can choose from several different career paths depending on their level of experience and interests. Explore your options.

Choose your driving style:

Company

All company drivers are typically paid by the mile and are eligible for a number of benefits from Prime, including health insurance, 401k with company match, and paid vacation.

Or

Independent contractor

Independent contractors (or owner operators) are paid a percentage of the freight bill and have a higher earning potential. Contractors also can take advantage of Prime's Rewards and Retention Program.

Solo

Take on the road all on your own. If you are looking to have your own space, solo driving might be the best option for you.

Or

Team

Pair up and hit the road. Team drivers can earn more by working together, working with alternating schedules to make sure that you’re running for more time and more miles. Plus, you’ll always have someone by your side to share the road with.

Over-the-road

See the beauty of the country when you travel across the country as an over-the-road (OTR) driver. OTR drivers are typically out for 3-4 weeks at a time before returning home, delivering important freight to our customers.

Or

Regional

Enjoy steady pay and frequent hometime by being a regional driver. Focus your deliveries on a specific region instead of across the country, allowing you to get back home more often.

Umbrella of Support

Rainy days can happen out on the road, but your umbrella of support here at Prime will help keep you running safely and successfully for the long haul. 

Road Assist Advisor

Payroll Advisor

Fleet Manager

Night/Weekend Dispatch

Logs Advisor

IT Help Desk

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